“What gives you that idea?” demanded his employer displeased.
“In Tompkins peggers are paid seventy cents a day.”
“Then you are at liberty to go there and find work,” said Simpson, roughly.
“I can’t do that, sir, as you know I cannot leave my mother. Besides, if I had my board to pay, I should be worse off than I am now.”
“That is a very sensible conclusion. You will find that you are well off in my employment, but if at any time you become dissatisfied, don’t trouble yourself to stay on my account. I can easily fill your place.”
“Yes, sir, I suppose you can,” answered Tom, slowly.
“Have you any further business with me?” asked Mr. Simpson, impatiently.
“No, sir.”
“Then I will bid you good-evening.”
“I have just a few words to say, Mr. Simpson,” said Tom, looking steadily at the man before him.